Ruto Rallies for Raila’s AU Commission Chair Bid in Addis Ababa
President William Ruto is in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he is rallying support for former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Ruto arrived in Ethiopia on Wednesday evening after concluding a one-day official visit to South Sudan. Upon arrival, he was received by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Bole International Airport.
On Thursday, the Kenyan President held meetings with African diplomats based in Ethiopia, engaging with ambassadors during a session of the Permanent Representatives Committee. As the African Union’s Champion for Institutional Reforms, Ruto addressed the ambassadors, underscoring the importance of consultation and collaboration in reforming the AU to make its institutions more accountable, efficient, and effective in serving Africa’s member states.
“It is imperative that Africa becomes organized and builds the necessary synergy to tackle the challenges that face the continent,” President Ruto said. “The reform agenda of the African Union institutions must be thorough and consultative.”
Although Ruto did not explicitly mention Raila’s candidacy in his public statements, it is understood that he used the opportunity to lobby for his fellow Kenyan’s bid for the AUC chairperson position. Raila is in Addis Ababa for a series of high-level engagements, including unveiling his continental campaign for the AU position.
In a statement released by Raila’s secretariat on Wednesday, it was noted that the event in Addis Ababa would serve as a follow-up to Raila’s candidacy launch in Nairobi on August 27, 2024. The event is designed to provide Raila with a platform to engage with key African Union players, partners, and stakeholders.
Raila, who is expected to deliver a keynote address later on Friday at the Grand Campaign Reception at the AU Multipurpose Hall, will outline his pan-African vision and his priorities in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063.
The bid for the AUC chair comes at a time when the African Union is pushing for deeper institutional reforms to strengthen the continent’s ability to respond to shared challenges, ranging from security issues to economic development.
President Ruto’s support for Raila’s candidacy signals a united Kenyan front as both leaders aim to increase the country’s influence within the African Union framework.
By Albert Kimutai
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